Gene McIntyre, Republican candidate for N.C. Senate District 25, is “resting comfortably” after a one-car accident Wednesday while he was driving to Rowan County, his campaign said.
In a Facebook post, the campaign said McIntyre plans to be back on the trail soon.
McIntyre was traveling from a campaign event in Stanly County to “door knock” in Rowan County when he was involved in a one-car accident. He was taken to Stanly Regional Medical Center and then taken to Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte for further evaluation.
“Gene is resting comfortably with his wife, Sue, and children,” the campaign said. “They are thankful for the prayers and well wishes being sent. Gene fully intends to be back out on the campaign trail very soon, spreading his positive message for the need of a conservative, effective senator for the 25th District in Raleigh.”
McIntyre is a Stanly County commissioner and retired educator. His Democratic rival, Gene McLaurin, on Wednesday night asked for prayers for his opponent.
Because the candidates both have the same first name, McLaurin has received concerned phone calls. He assured everyone on his Facebook page “Gene McLaurin for N.C. Senate” that he is safe and his family is praying for McIntyre to have a speedy recovery.
“I just left a luncheon of retired school personnel in Stanly County where someone who was with the McIntyre family said Gene was recovering well,” said McLaurin on Thursday. “Our prayers have been with him since we heard about this. I’ve encouraged others to pray as well. The fact that surgery is not needed is encouraging. I wish his family the best and look forward to seeing him back on the campaign trail. I have a lot of respect for Gene and it sounds like he’s coming home this weekend.”
McLaurin said he called and left McIntyre a message as soon as he heard about the accident.
“There are a lot of things more important than politics,” said McLaurin, who is mayor of Rockingham.
The Senate District 25 seat is up for grabs because incumbent Sen. Bill Purcell decided not to run for re-election.
Redistricting last year brought southeastern Rowan County into the district, which also includes Scotland, Richmond, Anson and Stanly counties.
The Salisbury Post contributed to this article.
— Staff Writer Dawn M. Kurry can be reached at 910-997-3111, ext. 15, or by email at dkurry@heartlandpublications.com.
Post a Comment
